Michigan’s defense ranks at the top in the Big Ten in scoring, yardage allowed, rushing and passing, but it will face a different type of challenge on Saturday in going against in-state rival Michigan State. That comes from a Spartans’ offense that ranks second in conference pass efficiency.
On Monday, Jim Harbaugh raved about the quality of the Michigan State receivers, noting that they might be the best group the Wolverines will face this season. One way to keep them out of the game would be to disrupt the pass, but even that is a very difficult challenge against this opponent.